No Diwali Bonus, No Toll: Agra–Lucknow Expressway Workers Let Vehicles Pass Free
By Tajdar H. Zaidi
Lucknow — In a rare show of defiance, toll workers on the Agra–Lucknow Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Fatehabad opened all gates on Monday, allowing thousands of vehicles to pass without paying any toll.
Their protest was triggered by anger and disappointment over what they described as an “insultingly low” Diwali bonus.
The 21 employees stationed at the Fatehabad toll plaza — managed by Shri Sign & Datar Pvt. Ltd. — refused to continue their duties after learning they would receive only ₹1,100 as a festival bonus.
For many of these workers, who endure scorching heat, long hours, and relentless night shifts, the amount felt like a token gesture rather than recognition of their year-long hard work.
The company, which took over management of the toll plaza in March this year, cited its short operational period as the reason for not offering a full year’s bonus.
But the explanation only deepened resentment. Workers said they felt “devalued” and “ignored,” especially during Diwali — a festival that symbolizes gratitude and prosperity across India.
As tempers rose, employees opened all toll lanes, bringing traffic control to a standstill and allowing thousands of vehicles to pass freely.
Attempts by management to bring in replacement staff from other plazas were met with stiff resistance, forcing operations to a complete halt.
Police teams soon reached the site to restore order and facilitate talks between the toll company and the agitating workers.
After tense negotiations, company officials agreed to a 10% salary hike as an immediate relief measure and promised to review bonus policies for the coming year.
The two-hour standoff ended peacefully, and normal operations were restored by late afternoon.
Yet, the incident has cast a harsh light on the working conditions of toll employees — men and women who keep India’s highways running but rarely share in the rewards of the festivals they help others reach on time to celebrate.
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